Marta O’Brien has been sharing her knowledge of architecture and history for over 30 years, specializing in Western architecture. She has created and presented tours and illustrated lectures for historical societies, lifelong learning groups, visitors to Toronto, and private individuals.
Since 2008, Marta also taught architectural history courses she has developed for the University of Toronto’s School of Continuing Studies (where she recently received an Excellence in Teaching Award). Previously she had taught at Toronto Metropolitan University, George Brown College, and the AGO.
Marta's degrees in architecture and environmental studies (concentrating on cities) provide the foundation for her ongoing research into architecture and history. Some of Marta’s talks and courses explore Toronto; the rest examine Western architectural history and architects.
Based on her years of promoting public appreciation of architecture with the public, in 2021 Marta was elected an Honorary Member of the Ontario Association of Architects. She is a member of the Toronto Society of Architects. Until 2014, Marta served seven years as a volunteer member of the Heritage Toronto Board of Directors.
TESTIMONIALS ON MARTA’S WALKING TOURS (& COURSES below)
“During March Break, a friend and I decided to take our children on a historical walking tour of Old Town. We all enjoyed the tour — it was interesting, age-appropriate and fun. I have done three tours with Marta, and look forward to doing many more. A great way to learn about the architecture and history of Toronto!” - Alicia
“Our walking tour was fantastic... We were very impressed with the depth of knowledge of architectural styles, as well as the cultural context of the era described by Marta, as she revealed the jewels in our midst. The tour appealed to everyone in our group.” - The Canadian Association of Women in Construction
“Our Group thoroughly enjoyed your walking tours of the Annex and Rosedale. Your architectural knowledge and history of the areas was most interesting and we look forward to our next walk on the Toronto Islands.” - Susan
“The Jaunters thoroughly enjoyed their walk of the Beach. Comments included: excellent, a great mix of detail and stories, information very interesting but not overpowering, great value, and good mix of walking and stopping to listen and observe.” - The Jaunters, St. Catharines
ON MARTA’S COURSES & LECTURES
“I learned so much and really appreciate the research and perfection you put into every lesson. ... Know that your courses help me walk through different neighbourhoods with a far greater appreciation for architectural details.” - student who'd taken four courses with Marta, 2016-20
“Marta has an amazing way of leading the lectures and always surprises me with new ideas” - Toronto’s Neighbourhood Architecture, 2021
“The instructor was very passionate and knowledgeable...course materials in addition to excellent instruction were also helpful.” - Great Western Architects, 2018
“Marta expanded the discussion beyond simply architecture to broader areas of study such as urban planning, real estate development, ...helpful in providing context” - Toronto’s Residential Architecture: A History, 2018
“Marta delivered ... a perfect harmony of scholarly rigour with a smart and witty delivery.” - Architecture: All Around Us, 2019
“Marta O’Brien has an encyclopedic knowledge of the history of Toronto’s architecture which she presents with passion and intelligence.” -Toronto’s Commercial Architecture, 2012